John E. Carlson's Obituary
John Eber Carlson, 95, passed peacefully February 17, 2025, surrounded by family. John was born May 30, 1929, in Ishpeming, Michigan to Eber C. and Gladys M. (Krieger) Carlson. Unfortunately, his mother passed away unexpectedly when he was six months old. His father remarried and he was raised by Charlotte (Gardiner). He told stories of his youth living with his grandparents at Tawas Point Lighthouse in the summers and being used for Coast Guard rescue drills and spending his time after school with friends at Congress Pizza in Ishpeming.
He served his country by joining the U.S. Air Force at 17 years old and served from 1946 to 1954. He was stationed initially in Arizona where he was introduced to the love of his life, Audrey (Batchelder). They were married December 16,1949 and just celebrated 75 years of marriage.
John and Audrey moved back to Michigan after his service. John worked at S.D. Warren Company as a customer service manager for 33 years before he retired. They built their dream house in Chandler, Texas, near Audrey’s sister, and loved having their grandchildren visit in the summers. They later moved to Cape Coral, Florida and finally moved back to Muskegon, Michigan to spend the latter of their retirement.
John was a lifetime member of the Freemasons and Eastern Star, Lions Club, and many other volunteer activities throughout the years.
He will be sorely missed by his wife, Audrey; his son, John (Kathy) Carlson; his grandchildren, Erik (Lisa) Carlson and Melissa (Jason) Owen; his great-grandchildren, Martha and Audrey Owen, and Jake Nanna; and his brother, Russell Carlson.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Jennifer Carlson, and brothers, Kermit and Wayne Carlson.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Muskegon Rescue Mission, 2735 E Apple Ave Ste D, Muskegon, MI 49442.
Arrangements entrusted to The Walburn Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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